The unique perspective and provocative opinions of Joe O’Neill
Sports Shorts
Here’s a sure sign of a sports town–and it’s more than multiple championships and a “Champa Bay” moniker. In the Lightning’s case, it’s also about a sold-out Amalie Arena for a WATCH PARTY. “This town is a sports town…and I’m proud to be part of it,” underscored Bolts’ coach Jon Cooper.
Baseball is back in the Olympics for the first time since 2008. And the Rays organization will be well represented on the 24-man U.S. roster by pitchers Shane Baz and Joe Ryan. Both are currently with the Rays’ Triple-A affiliate in Durham.
Sha’Carri Richardson, an Olympic favorite in the women’s 100-meter dash, will not be competing in that event. She tested positive for marijuana. Marijuana?
“If the (Rays’) bullpen goes south, the season will go south.” Rays TV analyst Brian Anderson.